2010 Volkswagen Scirocco R

We wont get this caror any Sciroccobut it provides some clarity on the Golf R thats coming to America.

JENS MEINERS

May 20, 2009

THE MANUFACTURER

This weekend’s running of the 24-hour endurance race at the legendary Nürburgring is not just playing host to racing dreams, but also to the launch of the Volkswagen Scirocco R. The third and latest generation of the VW Scirocco is not for the U.S., but it's still fun to keep tabs on, especially since the R gives us a glimpse of the Golf R that should arrive on our shores later this year.

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Not the Race Car, but It’s Close

Five Sciroccos will race at the Ring under the Scirocco GT24 moniker; three of them are powered by a 315-hp TSI engine, while the other two use a 300-hp version fueled by compressed natural gas. The street Scirocco R that Europeans will be able to buy is only slightly less powerful than the ‘Rocco racers: Using a high-powered version of the 2.0-liter turbo four that’s ubiquitous across the VW Group’s lineup, it makes 265 hp at 6000 rpm and a whopping 258 lb-ft of torque at 2500–5000 rpm. In this spec, it is most closely related to the unit offered in the $46,000 Audi TTS, as well as the Euro-only Audi S3. Fuel economy is rated at a modest 28 mpg in the European cycle (29 with the six-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission). The manual-equipped Scirocco reaches 62 mph in a claimed 6.5 seconds (6.4 with DSG). Top speed is governed at 155 mph.

Like the new Golf GTI, the Scirocco R is equipped with a standard electronic differential, dubbed XDS. In fast corners, it subtly applies brake pressure to the front inner wheel, which sends more torque to the outer wheel. Understeer is thus virtually eliminated, enabling faster exit speeds. An electronic suspension called DCC will be optional. The stability control has a program that allows for later intervention, and the steering is retuned over that in standard Sciroccos.

Styling Fits the Bill

VW’s design team has made sure bystanders will be aware of the Scirocco R’s sporting intentions. The R stands on 18-inch wheels and 235/40 rubber, with 19-inch wheels optional. The front end is graced by three huge air intakes and LED daytime running lights. Air enters the engine bay through a specifically styled grille and exits behind the car through large exhaust pipes left and right. The taillights are darkened.

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Inside, black and aluminum trim separates the Scirocco R from its lesser siblings, the steering wheel gets a flat bottom, and the seats are covered in specific Kyalami fabric, named after the famous South African racetrack.

The Scirocco was not developed with the U.S. market in mind. Despite the loyal following of the first two Scirocco generations and the Corrado, which served as an interim model, then-VW brand guru Wolfgang Bernhard decided to keep the Scirocco from the American market. Making the Scirocco U.S.-legal at this point would require alterations so extensive that the business case would implode, a company spokesman tells us.

But don't despair: The Scirocco R's sister model, the upcoming Golf R—the name has finally been settled on—will not only add all-wheel drive, it will also squeeze five more horsepower from the same engine. The best part, though? Although the company is officially keeping mum about the Golf R’s stateside chances, our sources tell us it will indeed be offered in the U.S.